Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Wednesday welcomed increased Japanese investment and enhanced economic cooperation, and expressed hope for expanded opportunities for skilled Bangladeshi workers in Japan. Highlighting Japan's long-standing contribution to Bangladesh's development, she appreciated Japan's continued support through the BIG-B Initiative and Official Security Assistance programme.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the discussions took place when Japanese Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Namazu Hiroyuki called on the state minister at State Guest House Padma. Namazu Hiroyuki is on a two-day official visit to Dhaka and attended the 7th Bangladesh-Japan Foreign Office Consultations (FOC). He expressed appreciation for Bangladesh's warm hospitality and reaffirmed Japan's commitment to strengthening its close and long-standing ties with Bangladesh, recognising Bangladesh as an important partner in South Asia.
Shama Obaed welcomed the visiting Japanese senior deputy minister and expressed satisfaction at the successful holding of the consultations. Mentioning Bangladesh's long-standing friendship with Japan, she reaffirmed its commitment to further advancing the Bangladesh-Japan Strategic Partnership. Both sides expressed confidence that the Strategic Partnership will continue to deepen and expand in the years ahead.
Following the courtesy meeting, the state minister hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting delegation.